Hundreds of young dancers entered the competition and more than 100 competed in Birmingham in front of family, friends, dance professionals and dance enthusiasts for one of only six places in the Final.

Marion explained: 'The candidates have been asked to demonstrate the qualities that make a great performer. Margot Fonteyn's line and the way she drew an audience in with her eyes alongside Rudolf Nureyev's dynamics and his ability to electrify an audience, are qualities that make great performers. It is very fitting that the competition is named in their honour.'

Both she and Demond were very happy with the standard of dance displayed over the weekend.

'I couldn't think of a nicer way to spend a Sunday afternoon', said Desmond. 'I loved to watch the young people dance - they all deserve a prize, every single one.'

Click here to visit the Young Dancers Competition website for a full report.